With Thanksgiving behind us our attentions now turn to holiday celebrations and for many, finding the perfect Christmas tree to adorn our homes. This holiday staple provides a family memory to pass down through the years. Real Christmas trees date back to the 1800s when the German settlers brought this tradition to the US. I recall many fond memories with our children planning a day around a visit to the tree farm to cut our tree or purchase locally from pre-cut displays. Create a family tradition this year. You may enjoy some fun facts and tips about real Christmas trees. It can lead to your own sustainable journey
First and foremost, do not feel “guilty” about buying a fresh tree. You are not ruining pristine forests but helping to support an American farm family. Yes, Christmas trees are grown on farms just like any other agricultural crop. The National Christmas Tree Association tells us 98% of all Christmas trees are grown on farms as sustainable crops. For every tree cut 1-3 seedlings are planted. In Saratoga County we have a number of tree farms, so you are helping out the local economy…keeping it green by supporting a small local business. Did you know many local tree farms support the national Trees for Troops program? They donate trees for our men and women in service to our country each Christmas. Also many non-profit agencies in our area set up tree retail opportunities this time of year. So purchasing in these venues help support their agencies good works throughout the community all year long.
Once you find that perfect family tree, be sure to bring it indoors with a sturdy stand to keep it safe. There are many on the market. I always preferred the wide circular base to the unsteady leg style…particularly with 2 active cats in the house. These stands also boast a large water holding capacity. Your stand needs at least one gallon of water holding capacity for every 6 feet of tree. Freshly cut trees will not uptake the water as quickly as pre-cut. But you certainly will need to keep an eye on it to maintain your tree for the duration of your celebrations.
And after Christmas, there are always options for recycling through your local community or fun ideas for the winter right in your backyard. So your fresh tree can take life after the celebrations of the season fade. Family traditions and tree reuse after the holidays, now that’s sustainable stuff! So go ahead start your 2013 family tradition that began with families in the 1800s. Are you up for the adventure? Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy! Would love to hear about your tree hunting adventure.
Looking for more ideas to Keep “green” sustainable, visit our Chips Landscaping website: www.chipslandscaping.net or follow our projects and ideas on our Chips Landscaping Facebook Fan Page
